How To Protect Your Child From Cyber-Bullying In Schools - By: Louise Hanson

The internet brings into our home entertainment,and everything else in between. It has revolutionized the way we work, play, learn and communicate with each other. What started as an experiment in a laboratory of Harvard University has expanded into one of the main ways in which people today do business, exchange information, and connect with others. In addition to its use as a research tool the World Wide Web provides other services such as email, instant messaging, file sharing, online forums and blogs. As such this technology now has an impact on our social structure and behavior. For example, there are people who meet online and then become married.

The Internet, however, is not immune from abuse. An example of internet abuse that has recently emerged is cyber-bullying. This term refers to bullying and harassment using electronic devices such as the internet or texting on mobile phones. Cyber-bullying and harassment can be done by e-mail, instant messaging, blogs, mobile phones, SMS and other electronic media.

In a survey conducted by Pew Internet and American Life, it became clear that at least 33% of all children who use the internet had experienced some type of harassment or had been the victim of cyber-crime. These acts include sexual harassment, threats of harm, name calling, and other acts which are harmful and undesirable.

Online bullies use their knowledge of computers and the internet to shock, intimidate, insult and control unsuspecting online users. These acts of intimidation because of shame, fear, stress and anxiety often do not get reported. Some people who have been victims of online harassment suffer from depression.

Surfing the internet often occurs away from the watchful eyes of parents or teachers. It is wise to train young people to become "web safe." There is basic internet safety procedures that need to be known such as:

• Do not use your real name every time you register a Web service.

• Never give personal information, such as sex, age, address, school, etc.

• Do not post pictures or send pictures online.

· As much as possible to avoid going into chat rooms. Most people in chat rooms are not truthful in their profile or identity. They may not be who they claim to be.

• Keep a copy of any offending messages. You may need a copy if you decide to take legal actions such as informing the Police.

• Never agree to meet in person someone you have just met online.

One of the worst things that can happen to a victim of online harassment and cyber-bullying is to feel alone and not know how to seek help. It takes a joint effort by the school authorities, parents and the community to stop cyber-bullying. Knowledge has power and through communicating with others an end can be put to this form of bullying.

About the Author

Bullies ruin the life of many ordinary people. There are many approaches to effectively deal with bullying. Finding out how you can stop bullying in schools having a negative impact on your children is critical for their future well-being. For further details please visit:
http://bullyinginschools.info

Article Directory Source: http://www.articlerich.com/profile/Louise-Hanson/153909

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